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Tibetan Filmmaker Released

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Rgd No. HPENg/2013/51798 VolumE: XVI IssuE: 5 30 JuNE 2014

By Edward JanichDhondup Wangchen, co-director of the documentary film “Leaving Fear Behind”, was released from prison on June 5. He was arrested in 2008 following the release of the film, which is a collection of interviews with native Tibetans living under Chinese rule. In the film, they openly share their views on Chinese occupation, the Dalai Lama, and the then-upcoming 2008 Olympics. In a show of bravery and defiance, most of the Tibetans filmed chose to show their faces. Some 108 interviews were recorded before the

material was s m u g g l e d out of Tibet in 2008.

The film has gained international acclaim and honours for Wangchen, i n c l u d i n g

the Committee to Protect Journalists’ 2012 International Press Freedom Award, the Visual Art’s Guild’s 2013 Freedom award and The Human Rights Foundation’s 2014 Václav Havel Prize for Creative Dissent. These awards recognise the bravery of those willing to risk imprisonment and torture in order to share their stories with the world. “Leaving Fear Behind” was screened in Times Square in New York in March 2012, and for the European Parliament as part of its January 2014 review of the human rights situation in China.

The US Puts Pressure on ChinaBy Michael Khabie-ZeitouneIn two recent moves, the United States State Department has signalled growing impatience with China’s

current policy on Tibet and their concern over the human rights situation there. The statements were made at a press briefing and in a new bill tabled in

the House of Representatives.On June 6, US State Department

Spokesperson Marie Harf stated that the US continues to urge China to engage unconditionally in “substantive dialogue” with the Dalai Lama or his representatives, address policies which are driving tensions in Tibetan areas and respond to requests for a US consulate in Lhasa. Following the stalemate in talks between Beijing and Dharamshala since 2010, China has continued to accuse the Dalai Lama and the government of seeking disguised independence. A recent statement from a Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson shows little change in this position, and confirmed that China would only speak to the Dalai Lama’s representatives “and only about his personal future, not anything to do with Tibet.”

On June 12, US Congressman Jim McGovern introduced a bill to the US House of Representatives, the Reciprocal Access to Tibet Act, which would promote greater access

to Tibetan areas for US officials, journalists and citizens. Under the legislation, Chinese officials who have designed or implemented restrictions would be denied access to the US. Current restrictions on travel to Tibet are “more severe than for any other provincial-level entity of China”, according to McGovern. More than ten US requests for diplomatic access have been denied, and prolonged delays hindered US efforts to support Americans involved in a bus accident in Tibet in October 2013.

Both Ms Harf and Congressman McGovern have voiced concerns over the effect of hardline Chinese policy on

human rights for Tibetans. M c G o v e r n stated that res t r ic t ions force Tibetans to live in “ v i r t u a l isolation from the world community”, making it

difficult to objectively assess the human rights situation there.

These developments follow a pledge of support from the Obama administration for the Middle-Way Approach and come on the eve of a new global awareness campaign, “Umaylam: The Middle-Way Approach”, in which the Tibetan Government-in-exile has renewed its efforts to clarify its strategy to achieve “genuine autonomy” for Tibetans within China.

First picture of Dhondup Wangchen after release

Photo: filmingfortibet.org

Continued on page 7

Congressman Jim McGovernPhoto: Phayul

State Dept Spokesperson Marie Harf

Photo: Tibet.net

ContaCt 2 JUNE 2014

ContaCt, a free monthly publication of Lha Charitable Trust, is a recognised and registered publication under the Registrar Office of the Newspaper, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting Government of India. The registration number is HPENG/2013/51798. Recognised by Lonely Planet and other international travel resources, Contact has been a popular source of news and information on Tibetan issues, and the Dharamshala community, for over 14 years.700 - 1,000 copies are printed per issue and distributed in the greater Dharamshala area and in Delhi, and various diplomatic missions to India. Copies are also send to various Tibetan schools, settlements, offices and NGOs in India.

Contact keeps readers up-to-date on current issues and events, and provides networking, education and volunteer opportunities, as well as social services information.

Contact staff and contributors hope you will enjoy and benefit from our modest efforts to build a community through communication. May peace and love prevail!

Guidelines for submission:Contact welcomes submissions of articles, news and photography. We also gladly accept information about upcoming events, volunteer work and special projects. All material intended for publication in Contact must be submitted by the 20th of each month.Your letter may not be printed if it is unsigned, illegible, slanderous or malicious. We reserve the right to edit submissions for spelling, grammar and length. Send your material via email to editor@contactmagazine.net

Please Note:The articles, stories and other material in Contact represent the views of the authors and not necessarily the views of the Contact editing staff or Lha Social Work.All comments on this issue should be submitted by email to editor@contactmagazine.net

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Mission Statement: Lha is a resource of education and knowledge that provides meaningful, multi-leveled social and educational services for the benefit of others. Background: Lha is a Tibetan grassroots nonprofit organisation based in Dharamshala, India. It is one of the largest social work organisations providing vital resources for Tibetan refugees, the local Indian population, and people from the Himalayan regions. Lha offers free English, French and Chinese classes, cultural exchange programs, IT classes, vocational training,

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On 6 July 2011, Lha opened its community soup kitchen at its new building, Ahimsa House. This is the first soup kitchen in Dharamshala and serves low-cost and nutritious meals to the Tibetan refugee community. Forty to fifty needy refugees can take advantage of this service every day for a nominal fee of 15 rupees per person, per meal. Meals are completely free for those who cannot afford to pay. The kitchen’s primary objective is to provide refugees with low-cost and nutritious meals while educating them about healthy eating and living. The kitchen will also serve as a space where refugees can receive formal training for the service and restaurant industry.

ContaCt 3 JUNE 2014

about lha & contact

Lha TraveLer ServiceS & voLunTeer opporTuniTieS Volunteer Classes and Services

Long or short-term, skilled or unskilled volunteers needed at Lha

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Lha offers you the opportunity to share your knowledge and skills with the local Tibetan, Indian, and Himalayan communities whilst gaining hands-on experience working with a social work organisation. Lha volunteers will develop friendships, learn about issues facing the Tibetan refugee community, and become immersed in the fascinating cultures of the people they are serving.

TIBETAN COOKING CLASSIndividuals and small groups can learn to prepare a variety of traditional and modern vegetarian Tibetan foods

including momos, thukpa and Tibetan bread, with a qualified teacher. TIBETAN HOME-STAYLha arranges home-stays with refugee families giving visitors the chance to experience the Tibetan life style and a chance to connect and learn about each others’ cultures. Spend your time in Dharamshala learning the language, cooking Tibetan meals, sharing rituals with a family, and making friends and memories that will last a lifetime. Homestays include accomodation, breakfast, and dinner.

For information on cost, times and/or registration, please visit: Lha office, Temple Road McLeod Ganj-176219

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RECEPTION & ORIENTATIONOur services help smooth your arrival in Delhi, and your onward travel to Dharamshala, and also to orientate you to the Tibetan community here. Avoid the scams at Delhi Airport! These services are highly recommended for people who want a stress-free arrival, especially if you are arriving late at night or early in the morning, and can be purchased online in advance of your travel to India There is a discount for people travelling together.*All donations and fees from Lha classes and services directly benefit Lha

community social work projects.

World Environment Day ProjectOn June 5, Lha collaborated with the Tibetan Women’s Association and the Clean Upper Dharamshala Programme to observe World Environment Day.

Everyone gathered at the McLeod Main Square in the morning and the programme started with students from the nearby Dharamshala Cantonment School who marched around the market to make the public aware of environmental issues.

This was followed by a skit play by Arts Salad, a dance class based in Jogiwara Road.

The main project focused on a Mass Clean-up in three main areas that required serious cleaning, namely the Tipa Road, Yongling School area and the Tushita Road.

There were around 150 participants, including nearly 100 volunteers, students and staff member of Lha. We also distributed brochures on how to manage waste material, printed in three languages: Tibetan, Hindi and English.

Lha took charge of the Tipa Road while the Tibetan Women’s Association and the Clean Upper Dharamshala Programme took responsibility of the Tushita Road and the Yongling School area, respectively.

All the people who took part in this Mass Clean-up project were so hard working and active.

We would like to extend our deepest appreciation to everyone who took part in this project and a special thanks to our partner organisations, the Tibetan Women’s Association and the Clean Upper Dharamshala Programme, for collaborating with us and making this event a much bigger success.

Thank you! Keep our city clean and green.

Volunteers and students carrying loads of garbage after cleaning the Tipa Road

Photo: Lha

The group waiting for garbage truck to pick up the garbage bags

Photo: Lha

ContaCt 4 JUNE 2014

news & issues

By Peter NewmanAll eyes are on Narendra Modi and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Since their landslide victory in the general election last month, Tibetans and Indians alike have been seeking signs that the Modi administration will be able to keep its campaign promises of economic invigoration and a revitalised Indian foreign policy. Early actions by the administration suggest that it recognises the major role that China has to play in achieving these goals, and there is evidence that a fresh China policy, coupling intensive economic co-operation with a newly-assertive foreign policy, is emerging.

Narendra Modi and the BJP swept to victory in May on a platform of economic growth and the dawn of a new Indian prosperity, and it was not the Indian electorate alone that responded warmly to this econo-centric agenda. On June 8, just two weeks after Modi’s inauguration, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi led a special envoy to New Delhi for two days of talks with India’s Minister for External Affairs, Ms Sushma Swaraj. The meetings, which centred around increases in Chinese direct investment and the creation of “special economic zones,” present Prime Minister Modi with the prospect of an economic

revival fuelled by heavy Chinese investment and trade. The talks present China with the potential to access the vast emerging Indian market, and the chance to strengthen ties with a regional power at a time when the United States has shifted its foreign policy focus to containing

Striking a Balance: Modi, China, and the Bottom Line for Tibetglobal Chinese influence. Comments from the governments of both nations on the June meetings suggest that each recognises the economic potential in what Foreign Minister Yi described as “the emerging tip of a massive buried treasure.”

Two long-standing issues complicate prospects for a new era of Sino-Indian partnership, however. The first is the series of territorial disputes over portions of Ladakh, Sikkim, and the north eastern state of Arunachal Pradesh that have plagued Sino-Indian relationships for over fifty years, manifesting most recently when the Chinese military made incursions into Ladakh in March. Though the June meetings between Foreign Minister Yi and Minister Swaraj included negotiations over the disputed territories, Prime Minister Modi has already taken a more assertive position on territorial and foreign policy issues. Since his term began, Modi has ordered the construction of military-grade highways and the fortification of 54 border posts in Arunachal Pradesh, and named VK Singh, a former army chief and well-known “hawk” on national security issues, Minister of State for the “North Eastern Region.” The Modi administration has also begun to reach out to the governments of Sri Lanka and the Maldives, which have developed closer ties with China in recent years, presumably in an effort to counter China’s growing influence in South-East Asia. These actions seem to indicate that Modi and the Hindu nationalist BJP intend to defend Indian foreign policy interests against China more vigorously than its predecessors.

A second complication for Sino-Indian relations is the Modi administration’s early treatment of Tibetans living in exile. Though Indian police halted a sizeable Tibetan protest against Foreign Minister Yi’s visit to New Delhi before it reached the Chinese embassy, the Prime Minister has taken a number

of small but meaningful steps with regard to the Tibet issue. The first was his decision to invite Sikyong, the political head of the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) to his swearing-in ceremony on May 27, and to seat him in a front section - a move

that led China to file a formal protest with the Indian government. Second is the Prime Minister’s appointment of Dr Ajit Kumar Doval, a known supporter of the CTA and the Tibetan exile community, as National Security Advisor. Though these actions may appear slight, they reflect the Modi administration’s greater willingness to stand up to China on foreign policy matters, and to assert an early, if temperate, support for the Tibetan exile community.

The exact balance the Modi administration seeks to strike between economic co-operation with China and deterrence against Chinese encroachment on Indian foreign policy interests remains to be seen. For the international Tibetan community, much depends on this calculation. Should Modi pursue intensive economic engagement with China, India’s Tibet policy could be at risk of becoming subject to Chinese economic influence (as many argue has become the case in Nepal). Should the Prime Minister pursue too aggressive a foreign policy agenda, any potential for meaningful bilateral negotiations on Tibet would likely be lost. Until Modi strikes his balance, the precise nature of Sino-Indian relations and the future of the Tibetan cause will remain uncertain.

Mr Wang Yi and Ms Sushma Swaraj Photo: news.cn

Sikyong seated with other dignitaries at the swearing-in ceremony in New Delhi

Photo: Tibet.net/CTA

ContaCt 5 JUNE 2014

news & issues

A Warm Welcome for His Holiness in ItalyBy Tsering WangdueThe Tibetan spiritual leader His Holiness the Dalai Lama visited Italy from June 10-16. His Holiness’s first visit was to the Lama Tsong Khapa Institute in Pomaia in Pisa.

On June 12 the Dalai Lama met a delegation from the Sacred Convent of Assisi, together with more than 80 journalists. He spoke to the gathering about the importance of the media in promoting human values and religious harmony.

On the morning of his final day in Pomaia, His Holiness blessed the five-metre tall, four-armed Chenrezig statue at the Lama Tsong Khapa Institute and gave a teaching. Around one thousand people gathered there to listen to the Dalai Lama give a teaching on

developing love and compassion. His Holiness emphasised the importance of studying the teachings in order to learn from them.

The Lama Tsong Khapa Institute, one of the largest Buddhist centres

in Europe, was founded in 1977. The institute runs a Liberation Prison Project which offers spiritual teachings and advice to prisoners, and to date

the project has benefited thousands of prisoners in Italy. This teaching was watched live by 1,200 prisoners in Milan via the internet.

On June 14 His Holiness was warmly welcomed to the Modigliani Forum by the Mayor of Livorno, Filippo Nogarin, before beginning his teaching there. He was presented with the Key to the city of Livorno, having already received an honorary citizenship there during an earlier visit.

At the Forum, His Holiness gave commentaries on the great Buddhist scholar Nagarjuna’s “Shetring” (letter to a friend) and on the following day gave the “Avalokiteshvara Jigten Wangchuk” empowerment and a public talk on “Ethics and Compassion”.

At Lama Tsong Khapa Institute, PomaiaPhoto: FilmPro

Silence in Beijing on Tiananmen AnniversaryBy Myrto VogiatziThousands of police and paramilitary troops patrolled Tiananmen Square earlier this month on the 25th anniversary of China’s brutal crackdown there on pro-democracy protesters. Although there was no trace of demonstrations or public commemorations, repressive tactics began earlier and were more extensive than in previous years.

At least 66 activists, lawyers, artists and victims’ relatives were detained by the Chinese authorities in connection with the Tiananmen anniversary, according to Amnesty International. Western journalists were ordered by the police to stay away from the square or risk “serious consequences”, according to several reporters who were summoned to meetings with security officials. One French broadcast team, picked up by the police while interviewing people about the crackdown, was interrogated for six hours and forced to make a videotaped confession. The harassments faced by journalists came with increased internet censorship, including a block of The Wall Street Journal’s Chinese site and a block of Facebook, Twitter and Google services.

In stark contrast with the silence in Beijing, more than 180,000 people - police put the estimate at 99,500 - converged in Victoria Park in Hong Kong for a candlelight vigil. The names of those who died in the

protests were read out loud as footage of the clampdown was shown on large screens. Among the crowd were many from the Chinese mainland. Under the agreement governing Hong Kong’s handover to China in 1997, Hong Kong has far greater civil liberties than the mainland.

In the Taiwanese capital Taipei, exiled Chinese dissidents and witnesses of the crackdown addressed a crowd of about 500 people. Taiwanese President Ma Ying-jeou described the massacre as an “enormous historical wound” and

called on Beijing to “speedily redress the wrongs to ensure that such a tragedy will never happen again”.

The United States has urged China to account for those who were killed, detained or went missing in connection with the 1989 protest. Beijing reacted angrily to the White House statement, accusing Washington of a “total disregard of fact”. Foreign Ministry Spokesman Hong Lei said it “blames

the Chinese government for no reason, gravely interferes in China’s internal affairs and violates the basic norms guiding international relations”.

His Holiness the Dalai Lama offered his prayers to the Tiananmen dead and issued a statement urging Beijing to embrace democracy.

Vigil in Hong KongPhoto: New York Times

Protestors in Tiananmen Square in 1989Photo: Boston Globe

ContaCt 6 JUNE 2014

news & issues

A Middle-Way to FreedomBy Michael Khabie-ZeitouneA new campaign, “Umaylam: The Middle-Way Approach” launched by the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) on June 5, is “the most concerted effort to date to secure basic freedom”

for the Tibetan people through “genuine autonomy”, according to Dr Lobsang Sangay, the elected political head of the CTA. The campaign aims to clarify CTA proposals for Tibetan

autonomy within China and counter misinformation about the Middle-Way policy in the international community.

The Middle-Way policy was first established in 1974 by His Holiness the Dalai Lama and has the support of international leaders such as US President Barak Obama, as well as that of Chinese intellectuals such as Nobel Laureate Liu Xiaobo. It seeks genuine autonomy for Tibetans through a middle path “between repression and separation from China”. The campaign materials make clear how long the Middle-Way policy has been adopted, its impact to date and future intentions.

They include an interactive website, a seven-minute documentary video, a social media campaign, a timeline of the Tibetan struggle and FAQs in several languages. During the inauguration

ceremony in Dharamshala, which attracted wide press coverage, the information materials were presented to His Holiness the Dalai Lama for blessing.

The campaign launch follows a stalemate in talks (nine rounds from 2002 and 2010) between Beijing and Dharamshala. China has accused the CTA of seeking independence in disguise following the 2008 Memorandum on “Genuine Autonomy for the Tibetan People” - a memorandum from the CTA which respects China’s territorial integrity, while setting out core Tibetan needs within China, such as cultural and environmental preservation. On a number of occasions, Sikyong Sangay has addressed deliberate attempts by Chinese officials to mislead international leaders about the Tibetan strategy.

Presenting the Middle Way documents to His Holiness the Dalai Lama

Photo: Tibet.net

By Annie PadwickChinese Premier Li Keqiang and 200 Chinese business leaders arrived in the United Kingdom on June 17 to begin three days of economic talks with UK Prime Minister David Cameron and government representatives. Expectations of this visit were high, as China and Britain were set to sign around 40 economic co-operation and investment agreements worth an

estimated £18 billion ($30billion). As early as the first day of the visit, negotiations looked to be in jeopardy as Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg said he could not ignore “the very large scale human rights abuses that still occur” in China.

Chinese-British economic relations soured in 2012 after the British Prime minister met the Dalai Lama. In response, China made no officials available to meet a British delegation on its visit to China the same year. Chinese ambassador to Britain, Liu Xiaoming, speaking ahead of the visit, said “many opportunities were missed in the last year and we all know the reasons behind it”. He maintained that he was positive about further economic co-operation, but also warned the UK not to “point the finger” at human rights in China if they wanted economic co-operation. Previously Chinese diplomats had also threatened to cancel their visit unless the Chinese Premier was granted an audience with the Queen.

Deputy Prime Minister Clegg has criticised China for abuse of human rights, persecution of journalists and widespread use of the death penalty. However, he argues that Britain should not “sever ties” with China, because in the long run “commercial prosperity [and] economic transformation in China will lead to an ever increasing

pressure for social and political emancipation.”

Downing Street has distanced itself from Clegg’s comments and a Conservative business minister has stated that human rights should not get in the way of growing trade relationships. However, not all the English public agrees with this approach, and protesters gathered in Downing Street to make their views known to the government and the Chinese delegates.

Padma Dolma of Students for a Free Tibet said, “We are not asking for Britain to stop any economic ties with C h i n a , what we are asking for is to resist the bullying tactics that China is carrying out towards the UK Government [.. and] to find a meaningful and peaceful resolution for the crisis in Tibet.”

Trade and Investment, or Human Rights?

David Cameron and Li KeqiangPhoto: scmp.com

Protest at Downing StreetPhoto: scmp.com

ContaCt 7 JUNE 2014

news & issues

Amnesty International followed his case closely, and pressed the government for his early release. Dhondup Wangchen has also received support from Human Rights Watch, Front Line, The Committee to Protect Journalists, Reporters Without Borders, and the Tibetan Centre for Human Rights and Democracy.

The run-up to his release saw a

widespread campaign by the many people concerned that Wangchen would be kept in detention. A campaign called “Unchain the Truth” was led by friends and relatives of those who worked on the film, as well as Students for a Free Tibet to keep the international spotlight on his forthcoming release.

Born in 1974 in Amdo, Wangchen

received no formal education. In Lhasa he witnessed a pro-independence demonstration which laid the foundation for his later activism.

In a phone call to his cousin, Gyaljong Tsultrin, Wangchen said “I would like to express my feeling of deepest gratitude for all the support I received while in prison and I want to be reunited with my family.”

Tibetan Filmmaker ReleasedContinued from page 1

His Holiness Reaches Out to Tibetan YoungstersBy Mary TrewarthaHis Holiness the Dalai Lama’s Annual Summer Teaching took place on June 4-6 at Tibetan Children’s Village School. This annual teaching, which has been snowballing yearly since its introduction in 2007, included all Tibetan schools in Himachal and about 100 students from Sambotha and CST (Tibetan run) schools, totalling around 3,500 participants.

The teaching introduces youngsters to Tibetan Buddhism and focused this year on the “Sherab Nyingpo” (Heart Sutra) and “Manjushri prayer - Gang Loma” (Praise to the Intelligent One).

His Holiness expressed concern over the dwindling interest in Buddhism among young Tibetan people. He

said that only a few Tibetans born in exile now enrol into monasteries,

though it is not mandatory to become a monk to study Buddhism. He urged the young people present to study Tibetan Buddhism as an educational field instead of following it as a blind faith, and encouraged them to ask questions.

On the third day, His Holiness gave the Avalokiteshvara initiation which, to accommodate more people, was held at the main basketball ground. The teaching was followed by the launch of the Central Tibetan Administration’s Middle-Way Approach Campaign by the elected head of the Tibetan people, Sikyong Dr Lobsang Sangay.

Students during the teaching at Upper TCVPhoto: TCVupdate.wordpress.com

The Karmapa Visits EuropeBy Tsering WangdueThe 17th Gyalwa Karmapa Ogyen Trinley Dorje left for a tour of Europe on May 28. His programmes included giving Buddhist teachings, addressing current social issues and speaking of the significance of compassion in today’s world.

Starting at the Kamalashila Buddhist Institute in Langenfeld, West Germany, the Karmapa met representatives from all the European Karma Kagyu centres and organisations. In Nuerburgring, he made the Tibetan Traditional Buddhism teaching accessible to the 2,000 people present.

The Karmapa followed this with the “Empowerment of the Eighty Four Mahasiddhas” and the “Empowerment of the Medicine Buddha” on subsequent days, and thanked all the

supporters who made his journey possible, especially friends in the Indian Government.

The Karmapa inaugurated a stupa at the Kamalashila Institute, and spoke about stupas and their representation of the physical body, speech and mind of the Buddha. He then planted a tree to demonstrate personal responsibility in environmental protection and preservation.

In Cologne, he visited the Cathedral and spoke at the Catholic University, stressing that compassion is “shared commonly by all religions”.

Travelling to Berlin, Gyalwa Karmapa met Rabbi Ben-Chorin and Rabbi Gesa Ederberg, the leaders of the Berlin Jewish community and visited the Holocaust Museum and the Berlin Wall. He later gave

teachings at the Estrel Convention Centre in Sonnenallee in Berlin and spoke on the social and environmental

responsibility of young people. He also gave a religious transmission from the 13th century to his followers.

The Karmapa delivered his first ever public talk in Europe on June 5, speaking on “Ancient wisdom for the modern world; heart advice for a meaningful life”.

The Karmapa in Langenfeld, GermanyPhoto: kagyuoffice.org

ContaCt 8 JUNE 2014

news & issues

Chinese Restrictions at Saka Dawa and Kalachakra Celebrations

By Annie PadwickThis month, Tibetan Buddhists celebrate their most important religious holiday, Saka Dawa. Saka Dawa is a full month of celebrations honouring the life of the Buddha. The festival is celebrated during the fourth month of the Tibetan Lunar Calendar, a significant month as it is the one in which the Buddha’s birth, enlightenment and death occurred. This year Saka Dawa ran from May 29 – June 27, with major celebrations taking place during the full moon on June 13.

The word “Dawa” in Tibetan means “month”; “Saka” is the name of the most prominent star at this time of year. Tibetan Buddhists observe Saka Dawa by paying special attention to their Dharma practice, visiting holy sites to offer prayers and engaging in spiritual activities.

In recent years, restrictions on religious freedom during Saka Dawa

have been reported in Tibet, together with an increase in video and police surveillance. The Central Tibetan Administration reports that government officials in Tibet have been asked not

to take their annual leave during this period under threat of dismissal. It has also reported restrictions on visitors to Mount Kailash, a sacred mountain and a popular holy site during this time.

Further restrictions have been imposed on Tibetans wishing to travel to India to attend the Kalachakra Initiations being led by the Dalai Lama in July in Leh, Ladakh. Consequences for

people travelling to the Kalachakra Initiations in India include the withdrawal of their “them-tho”, a household registration system, the source reports.

Kalachakra, which means “Wheel of Time,” is a ritual that prepares devotees to be reborn in Shambhala, a celestial kingdom which, it is said, will vanquish the forces of evil in a future cosmic battle.

Radio Free Asia has reported that the Chinese government has banned travel to Kalachakra ceremonies in

Tsoe in Amdo, Tibet, and threatened to punish citizens who ignore the ban. Despite this, thousands of Tibetans have attended the ceremony amid heavy security presence.

Tibetans gather for the Kalachakra in Tsoe in Amdo, TibetPhoto: RFA

By Myrto VoyatzisFormer Kalon Tripa Venerable Professor Samdhong Rinpoche visited Russia from May 26 until June 7 at the invitation of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Kalmyk Buddhist Temple and

the Save Tibet Foundation in Moscow. This was his first visit to the country since the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991.

In Ulan Ude, the capital of Buryat Republic, Samdhong Rinpoche

Russia Welcomes Former Tibetan Prime Ministerparticipated in the “International Conference on Buddhism in the Changing World,” organised by the Institute for Mongolian, Buddhist and Tibetan Studies.

During the conference, Rinpoche read a message that the Dalai Lama had sent to the conference, and gave two talks entitled “The Challenges Faced by Tibetan Buddhism and Tibetan Community in the Modern World” and “Scientif ic Evidence of the Theory and Practice of Buddhist Meditation”. Rinpoche co-chaired panels on “Buddhism, Philosophy, Science and Comparative Studies” (pictured above) and participated in a round-table discussion on “Buddhism in the West”

and “Russian-Mongolian Co-operation in Studying Buddhism”. At the public presentation of Prof Robert Thurman’s book “Why the Dalai Lama matters”, Rinpoche spoke about the “Role and Activities of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama for the Modern World”.

From June 3-6, Rinpoche visited Elista, the capital of Kalmyk Republic, at the invitation of the President of Kalmyk Buddhist Union, Reverend Telo Tulku Rinpoche, and former Prime Minster of the Kalmyk Republic, Mr Vladimir Sengleev. There Rinpoche gave two public teachings: “Commentary on Nagarjuna’s Letter to a Friend” in the main temple of Kalmykia, followed by a meeting with members of the Friends of Tibet Society.

On his last day, Samdhong Rinpoche gave a public talk: “Meditation as Tool for Inner Transformation: How to Deepen One’s Spiritual Practice and Avoid Mistakes”.

Devotees greet Samdhong RinpochePhoto: Facebook/Samdhongrinpoche

ContaCt 9 JUNE 2014

news & issues

Tibetan Parliamentarians Seek Support in EuropeBy Maria DahlDelegates from the Tibetan Parliament-in-exile have visited Europe in order to bring greater attention to the critical situation prevailing inside Tibet and to gain support for the Middle-Way Approach campaign. Their mission was to meet European Parliamentarians in the countries visited as well as Tibet support groups.

Khenpo Sonam Tenphel, Deputy Speaker of the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile, led the group with Tibetan Parliamentarians Karma Choephel, Mr Dawa Phunkyi and Mr Jamyang Soepa. Mr Wangpo Tethong, Member of the Tibetan Parliament from the

Europe constituency, joined the delegation in Europe. The countries visited were Belgium, Slovakia, Poland, Czech Republic, Austria and Switzerland.

In the Czech Republic, Senator Mr Petr Bratský, head of the Tibet Group

within the Czech Senate said, “We understand your situation, we want to express our support for the Tibetan people and democracy in Tibet.”

Mr František Šebej, Chairman of the Slovakian Parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee said “I wish to express my solidarity with the Tibetan people” and stated that he was happy to fly the Tibetan national flag every year on March 10. This year, 160 Tibetan flags were hoisted across Slovakia. The delegation was also told that 644 Tibetan flags were hoisted across Czech Republic in schools, towns and cities on Uprising Day.

Tibetan delegation in BratislavaPhoto Tibet.net

A Glorious Win for Tashiling FC in the GCM Golden CupBy Tsering WangdueThe 20th Gyalyum Chenmo Memorial Gold Cup (GCMGC), the biggest football tournament in exile Tibetan

society, finished with a glorious win by Tashiling Football Club from Pokhara, Nepal who beat Dhondupling FC from

Clement Town, Dehradun in North India.

The first match kicked off on June 4 with 21 teams qualifying for the final tournament held at at the Dhondupling Tibetan settlement in Dehradun. The teams were divided into seven pools, the best team from each pool going forward to the quarterfinal stage.

A friendly football match was also held between the Tibetan national women’s team and the Dehradun Football Academy women’s team. Despite an impressive display of football skills and sportsmanship, the

Tibetan women’s team lost 5-2.The tournament finale was on June

15, with Tashiling beating defending champions Dhondupling by 2 goals to win the title after 11 years. Norbu Jinpa from Tashiling FC was awarded the “Best Player” of the tournament, scoring 9 goals. The award for Fair Play went to Mundgod FC from the South India Tibetan settlement.

The GCMGC was founded in 1981 in memory of His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s much-loved mother, and has been organised by the Tibetan National Sports Association since 2003.

Basketball Winners for a Society Free from Sexual ViolenceThe tournament was organised

collectively by the eight participating teams*. It was opened on May 25 by Nangsa Choedon, Secretary of the Public Service Commission, and at the closing ceremony Speaker of the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile, Mr Penpa Tsering, and Home Kalon Gyari Dolma of the CTA praised the organisers for promoting the awareness campaign.

Tenzin Tseyang of the Women’s Empowerment Desk at the CTA, who initiated the basketball tournaments to encourage Tibetan women to participate in sports, told Contact Magazine,

By Wendhe ChoetsoeThe Regional Tibetan Women’s Association (RTWA) Basketball Team has been celebrating not only their win in the “Dhasa Tibetan Women’s Basketball Tournament”, but the endorsement by the tournament of a campaign for a society free from sexual violence.

The week-long tournament is organised annually to promote women’s health and attracts more teams each year. All players wore purple wrist bands this year for the campaign for a sexual-violence free society.

“Increasing news reports on sexual violence cases in our community calls for urgent mass programmes, and I saw the Dhasa Tibetan Women’s Basketball Tournament as the best opportunity.”

*The eights teams were: the Dept of Home; Drogmo; Ex- TCV; Gu Chu Sum; Norbulinga; RTWA; Tibetan Career Centre and Tibetan Women’s Football team.

ContaCt 10 JUNE 2014

news & issues

Tibetan HeadlinesJun 26: Safety in SchoolsStudents’ safety and security in Tibetan schools, especially that of girls, is being prioritised as schools administrators from the major Tibetan schools meet to discuss ways of safeguarding children. Sikyong Lobsang Sangay, who is also the Education Kalon (minister), announced a new guideline for schools, produced by the CTA, and urged zero-tolerance of any transgressions.

Jun 25: Prisoner FreedSonam Norgye, 30, has been freed after serving three years in Powo Tramo prison in Nyingtri. He was detained in June 2011, for desecrating a Chinese flag and was brutally tortured during interrogation.

Jun 24: His Holiness in PadumHis Holiness the Dalai Lama arrived in

Padum in Zanskar, Jammu & Kashmir, I n d i a , where he is giving a two-day

teaching on Tsongkhapa’s “Concise Stages of the Path to Enlightenment”.

Jun 23: Torture Victims’ DayInternational Day in Support of Torture Victims was observed at the TCV Day School in McLeod Ganj with the theme “Fighting Impunity”. The event was organised by the Department of Health of the CTA and Gu-Chu-Sum Former Political Prisoners’ Movement.

Jun 22: Karmapa’s BirthdayThe 16th Karmapa, Ogyen Trinley Dorje celebrated his 30th birthday and the day was marked by over 400 Tibetans in New York and New Jersey. The Karmapa is the head of the Karma Kagyu of Kagyupa, which is one of the four major schools of Tibetan Buddhism.

Jun 21: Two Writers ReleasedTwo Tibetan writers have been released from Menyang prison on the outskirts of Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan Province. Jangtse Dhonkho,

36, and B h u d h a , 34, were jailed in 2010 for w r i t i n g anti-China

articles about the 2008 Tibetan unrest in the literary magazine Shar Dungri (Eastern Snow Mountain), which is now banned.

Jun 19: Protesters Detained27 Tibetans from Karsel village in Chabcha county, Tsolho, have been detained for opposing local Chinese mining operations that have run beyond their contract and had begun to encroach on sacred sites. The Tibetans vowed to block any further Chinese mining of white marble in their area in order to protect their land and environment, and the adjacent cemetery and site of spiritual significance.

Jun 16: 60 Men Detained60 men have been detained in Gewar village in Tongar Town, Dzogang county in Chamdo. They are being questioned about the recent mining protests and the death of Phakpa Gyaltsen who stabbed himself before jumping to his death last month. The men in the village, and anybody who had travelled to India, were ordered to attend a meeting where one member of each family was taken into custody.

Jun 13: Monk FreedGhangbhu Yudruk, a Tibetan monk from Koetsa village in Serta County, Kardze has been released from a Chinese detention centre in Minyak. He was arrested in 2012 for carrying out various anti-government protests as a member of “Margol Donglen Tsokpa” (Organisation to Tackle Communist Repression).

Jun 12: Shamar RinpocheShamar Rinpoche Mipham Chokyi Lodro, a prominent spiritual figure and an influential personality from the Karma Kagyu tradition of Tibetan Buddhism, has died of a heart attack in Germany. Shamar Rinpoche was born in Derge, Tibet.

Jun 8: Miss Tibet 2014Lone contestant Tenzin Yangzom, 23, from Gangtok in Sikkim was crowned

the new Miss Tibet 2014. L o b s a n g Wa n g y a l , director and producer of the yearly Miss Tibet

pageant said “We received eight applications for this year’s pageant. Five were confirmed but four withdrew at the last minute expressing various personal problems.”

Jun 7: Prayers DisruptedA prayer service for the long life and welfare of jailed Tibetan spiritual leader Tulku Tenzin Delek has been prevented by Chinese authorities in Lithang. Tibetan monks and laypeople at the Nalanda Theckchen Janghub Choeling were stopped and rebuked. Tulku Tenzin Delek is in jail on charges related to bomb blasts in Kardze and is the focus of a campaign for his release.

Jun 2: Deteriorating HealthTwo monks from Nyatso Zilkar monastery who are currently in prison are believed to be seriously ill following torture and deprivation of medical facilities. Tsultrim Kalsang, 27, is in Xining Prison, the other is Lobsang Jinpa, 32. It is believed they are in prison because they are related to two men who self-immolated together in June 2012.

ContaCt 11 JUNE 2014

news & issues

International HeadlinesJun 21: 50 Million RefugeesTo mark World Refugees Day, the United Nations has reported that the number of people living as refugees from war or persecution is rising. 6.3 million people have been refugees for years and some camps have become virtually permanent, with their own schools, hospitals, and businesses. The UN also estimates there are now 33.3 million internally displaced people.

Jun 18: South China SeaChina’s top diplomat Yang Jiechi is in Vietnam for talks in a bid aimed at easing tensions about both countries’ claims in the South China Sea. In May, China moved an oil rig into waters claimed by Vietnam sparking protest and anti-China demonstrations in Vietnam, culminating in riots. Since then, Chinese and Vietnamese boats have been squaring off in waters near the rig.

Jun 16: Schumacher WakesGerman racing legend Michael Schumacher, 45, has woken from the coma which followed a severe head injury he suffered in a skiing accident in the French Alps last December. He has left hospital in Grenoble and transferred to Lausanne University Hospital in Switzerland.

Jun 13: 2014 World CupThe Fifa World Cup in Brazil opened with a colourful ceremony in which

660 dancers paid tribute to the country’s n a t u r e , people and f o o t b a l l h i s t o t y .

The tournament will see 32 nations compete in 64 games.

Jun 12: Giant MothsMalaysia has been invaded by swarms of the giant Lyssa Zampa tropical moth, also known as the Laos brown butterfly. The furry moths have a wing span of up to 16 cm and are invading

Jun 27: Ebola “Drastic”The deadly Ebola fever in West Africa is spreading and the World Health Organisation says that “drastic action”

is needed to contain it. With nearly 400 people dead in the last four months it is

the largest outbreak of the disease. There is no cure for Ebola which is passed on by contact with body fluids of infected people or animals.

Jun 26: Libya ElectionLibya went to the polls in a bid to end the anarchy that has gripped the country since the 2011 overthrow of Muammar Gaddafi. However, fewer than half those who registered to vote turned out, and there were clashes between government forces and militants. To reduce tensions the nearly 2,000 candidates stood as individuals for places in the new 200-seat parliament.

Jun 25: Genocide Charges DroppedThe investigation by Spain’s National Court into Chinese former leaders’ alleged genocide in Tibet has been scrapped. The investigation does not comply with a new law curbing Spanish courts’ use of universal jurisdiction to pursue crimes against humanity committed abroad. This new law was drawn up when, following the original Spanish investigation, pressure from China threatened damaged relations with Spain.

Jun 23: “Unprovoked Attack”Israel claims to have attacked nine military targets in Syria in response to the killing of a 15-year-old boy, and injuries to others, in a strike in the occupied Golan Heights on the border between the two countries. It is unclear whether Syrian government forces were behind the incident, but Israel has described it as “an unprovoked act of aggression against Israel”.

homes, and have even interrupted a football match. Experts say there is no need for people to protect themselves against the moths as they do not cause any allergies or diseases.

Jun 10: Sexual ViolenceThe Global Summit to End Sexual Violence in Conflict, a four-day summit being held in London, is calling on the 140 nations present to write action against sexual violence into their military training. The event is the culmination of a two-year campaign spearheaded by United Kingdom Foreign Secretary William Hague and UN Special Envoy Angelina Jolie.

Jun 9: New PresidentEgypt’s new President Abdul Fattah al-Sisi has been sworn in after his landslide election win. He has vowed to tackle terrorism and bring security, and pledged no reconciliation with those who have “committed violence”.

Jun 5: G7 Leaders Warn RussiaLeaders of the G7 industrial nations say they are prepared to impose further sanctions on Russia over its actions

in Ukraine. Meeting in Brussels, they issued a joint s t a t e m e n t c o n d e m n i n g Moscow for its

“continuing violation” of Ukraine’s sovereignty. G7 leaders are looking to resolve the biggest crisis in years between Russia and the West.

Jun 2: India’s 29th StateThe new Indian state of Telangana has been created by splitting off the under-developed, agricultural northern area of Andhra Pradesh following a 50-year campaign for separate status. Telangana has a population of 35 million and includes the city of Hyderabad. The Telangana Rashtra Samithi party will form the first state government.

ContaCt 12 JUNE 2014

Central Tibetan Administration The CTA serves in Dharamshala as the govern-ment in exile of Tibet. It is democratic with judiciary, legislative, and executive branches. Within the Executive branch there is the Kashag, consisting of the departments of Religion and Culture, Home, Education, Finance, Security, Information and International Relations and Health, and Sikyong Dr Lobsang Sangay. WEB: www.tibet.netLOCATION: Dharamshala – 176215PHONE: 01892-222218HOURS: Mon-Sat: 9:00 am-5:00 pmEMAIL: kashag@tibet.net

The Office of His Holiness The Dalai Lama (OHHDL)OHHDL is the personal office of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. The office organises his schedule, including appointments and travel plans, diplomatic and personal correspondence, and liaises with officials of the Central Tibetan Administration. When His Holiness is in Dharamshala, his schedule includes daily religious practice and studies, meeting with private audiences, and congregating with the Tibetan Kashag and senior Tibetan governmental officials. WEB: www.dalailama.comLOCATION: Thekchen Choeling, McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala – 176219PHONE: 01892-221343 / 221210EMAIL: ohhdl@dalailama.com

Tibetan Youth Congress (TYC)The TYC is an advocacy and political action organisation with chapters around the world. The Tibetan Youth Congress organises cultural exhibitions, educational campaigns and social welfare activities. The organisation publishes a series of periodicals and magazines on the Tibetan cause. WEB: www. tibetanyouthcongress.org LOCATION: Tipa Road, McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala -176219PHONE: 01892-221554 EMAIL:president@tibetanyouthcongress.org, tyc@tibetanyouthcongress.org

Tibetan Women’s Association (TWA)The TWA conducts workshops on gender sensitization and domestic violence throughout Tibetan settlements in India, provides Tibetan women with education scholarships, and connects women with international sponsors. WEB: www. tibetanwomen.org LOCATION: Bhagsu Road, McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala – 176219PHONE: 01892-221527 EMAIL: tibwomen@gmail.com

Tibetan Children’s Village (TCV)TCV provides care to Tibetan children by creating a nurturing environment and fostering Tibetan values and culture while delivering a modern education. There is an Upper and Lower residential school in Dharamshala and day school in McLeod Ganj, with other branches throughout India. WEB: www.tcv.org.inLOCATION: Dharamshala Cantt.176216PHONE: 01892-221354 / 221348EMAIL: headoffice@tcv.org.in

Men-Tsee-Khang: Tibetan Medical & Astro. InstituteMen-Tsee-Khang is a facility for research, training and practice of traditional Tibetan medicine. Patients may seek treatment at Men-Tsee-Khang for both acute and chronic conditions. The facility provides extensive training and produces traditional pharmaceuticals. WEB: www.men-tsee-khang.orgLOCATION: Gangchen Kyishong, Dharamshala – 176215PHONE: 01892-223222EMAIL: tmai@men-tsee-khang.org

Tibetan Library (LTWA)(Centre for Tibetan Studies)The Library of Tibetan Works and Archives has the purpose to restore, protect, preserve, and promote Tibetan culture in all its aspects. They offer courses in Tibetan and Hindi language and Buddhist philosophy and can provide affordable accommodation for those enrolled in two or more courses. WEB: ltwa.net, tibetanlibrary.orgLOCATION: Gangchen KyishongDharamshala - 176215PHONE: 98822-55047EMAIL: ltwa1970@gmail.com

Delek HospitalDelek Hospital is a small, Tibetan run hospital in Dharamshala. It has 45 inpatient beds, holds outpatient hours from 9am to 12pm Monday through Friday, and can handle most small procedures. Patients are responsible for a 10 Rupees registration fee, although this is waived for those who fall under the poverty line. The hospital has a pharmacy on site.WEB:www.delekhospital.orgLOCATION: Kharadanda Rd, Dharamshala 176215; Delek Clinic, Bhagsu Rd,DharamshalaPHONE: 01892-222053 / 223381HOURS: Outpatient, Mon-Fri: 9:00 am – 12:00 pm; Specialist clinics, Mon-Sat: 2:00 pm-4:30 pm; Emergencies, 24 hours dailyEMAIL: delek@sancharnet.in

Sambhota Tibetan Schools SocietyThe society was established in 1999 to provide educational and administrative guidance to all Tibetan schools in remote areas of India and Bhutan that do not fall under the guidance of Tibetan Childrens Village. Today there are 12 schools under this organisation.WEB: www.sambhota.orgLOCATION: Session Rd, Dharamshala176215PHONE: 01892 - 228877 | 226877EMAIL: stss1999@gmail.com

Tong-Len Charitable Trust

Tong-Len’s mission is to help displaced communities in North India achieve a secure and sustainable future. Tong-Len projects include educational and health programs, childhood education and sponsorship, primary and nursery tent schools, and children’s support hostels. Volunteer opportunities available.WEB: www. tong-len.orgLOCATION: Top Floor, Bank Of Baroda, Kotwali Bazaar, Dharamshala-176215PHONE: 01892-223113 / 223930EMAIL: jamyang@tong-len.org

Students for a Free Tibet (SFT)SFT is an international ngo that promotes the Tibetan cause among the non-Tibetan community. The organisation attempts to build international solidarity by advocating for a free Tibet through chapter organisations at Universities around the world. WEB:www.sftindia.org, www.studentsforafreetibet.orgLOCATION: Jogiwara Road, McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala - 176219PHONE: 01892-220589 !

Tibetan Centre for Human Rights and Democracy (TCHRD)TCHRD advocates for human rights and provides education on the human rights situation in Tibet. The centre publishes journals and articles, as well as conducts workshops and campaigns. WEB: www.tchrd.orgLOCATION: CTA, Dharamshala - 176215PHONE: 01892-223363EMAIL: office@tchrd.org

Lha Charitable Trust (Lha)Lha, a Tibetan grassroots ngo based in Dharamshala, is one of the largest social work organisations providing vital resources for Tibetan refugees, the local Indian population, and people from the Himalayan regions. Lha offers free English, French and Chinese classes, cultural exchange programs, IT classes, vocational training, health and environmental awareness education, distribution of clothes and medicine, a community kitchen, and many other programs and activities. (see page 2)WEB:www.lhasocialwork.orgLOCATION: Temple Road, McLeod GanjPHONE: 01892-220992EMAIL: office@lhasocialwork.org

The Kangra Distt. Red Cross SocietyThe Kangra District Red Cross Society renders its humanitarian services, projects and activities with the help and the co-operation of people at all levels of society by donation.WEB: www.redcrosskangra.orgLOCATION: Red Cross Bhawan, DharamshalaPHONE: 01892-224888 / 9418832244EMAIL: sharmaopl12345@gmail.com

Gu-Chu-Sum Movement of TibetGu-Chu-Sum is a social service organisation that provides financial and medical support for ex-political prisoners and political activists from Tibet. WEB: www.guchusum.orgLOCATION: Jogibara Road, McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala -176219 PHONE: 01892-220680 / 220679EMAIL: guchusum1991@gmail.com

Tibet CharityTibet Charity provides programs including English and computer classes, an animal care program, and a variety of medical and educational financial support programs. WEB: www.tibetcharity.inLOCATION: Temple Road, McLeod GanjPHONE: 01892-221790 / 221877EMAIL:mail@tibetcharity.in tibccharity@gmail.com

Charities and Organisationsaround town

ContaCt 13 JUNE 2014

Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts (TIPA)Established in 1959, under the vision of HH the Dalai Lama, TIPA strives to preserve and promote Tibetan theatrical tradition. The insitute imparts comprehensive training and lesson on Tibetan folk dance, folk song, traditional instruments and tradition of Tibetan opera.TIPA also hosts a beautiful theatrical museum which remains open during working days. We organise a special group tour of our campus every Wednesday (10 am).WEB: www.tibetanarts.orgLOCATION: TIPA Road, McLeod GanjDharamshala-176219PHONE: 01892-221478EMAIL: tibetanarts2012@gmail.com

Learning and Ideas for Tibet (LIT)Learning and Ideas for Tibet (LIT) is a non-government, non-profit adult education centre in Dharamshala, North India. LIT provides Free Education, Health Care and Skills Training to Tibetan Refugees to help eradicate poverty and illiteracy amongst the Tibetan population.WEB: www.learningandideasfortibet.orgLOCATION: Jogiwara Road, Mcleod Ganj, Dharamshala 176219PHONE: 01892-220690EMAIL: learningandideasfortibet@gmail.com

Tibetan Centre for Conflict Resolution (TCCR)Tibetan Centre for Conflict Resolution is a non-profit, educational organisation dedicated to the non-violent management of conflicts in the Tibetan Community and the world as a whole.They work to promote the approaches and tools of non-violent conflict resolution and democratic processes in the Tibetan community in exile and elsewhere. WEB: http://tccr.orgLOCATION: Session Road, Gangchen Kyishong, Dharamshala 176215PHONE: 01892-226627EMAIL: tccrteam@gmail.com

Rogpa Baby Care CentreThe Rogpa Baby Care Centre helps low-income Tibetan families to become self-sufficient by providing free child care for infants

so their parents can work. The centre needs volunteers to help with art, games, singing and other tasks including diaper changing.WEB: www.tibetrogpa.orgLOCATION: Jogiwara Road, McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala- 176219 PHONE: 9816659549EMAIL: rogpa2004@yahoo.com

Gamru Village SchoolGamru Village School is a successful NGO that provides free high-quality education to any children who encounter serious barriers to education and who have a low standard of living.WEB: www.gamruschool.comLOCATION: Village Gamru, P.O Kotwali Bazaar, Dharamshala, Distt Kangra 176215PHONE: 9816105554EMAIL: tashu72004@yahoo.com

Clean Upper Dharamshala Project Founded in 1994 to provide a waste management system in and

around McLeod Ganj, the Green Workers, the Handmade Recycled Paper Factory, the Green Shop and the Environmental Education Center are part of the Clean Upper Daramsala Project. Weekly guided tours are offered on Wednesdays at 3 pm.WEB: www.tsodhasa.orgLOCATION: Bhagsu Road, McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala - 176219PHONE: 01892-221059EMAIL: office@tsodhasa.org

Nyingtob Ling (Realm of Courage) Nyingtob Ling supports Tibetan children from disadvantaged families. The children make handicrafts and paintings. They are so friendly and love to have visitors.WEB: www.nyingtobling.orgLOCATION: Near Norbulingka, SidhpurPHONE:01892 211042 / 9816028149EMAIL: nyingtob_ling@hotmail.com Women’s TeamVolunteers needed to teach English to Indian women and children in the village of Kaniyara near Dharamshala. Contact Jitender.EMAIL: jitenderje@gmail.comPHONE: 9817105035 / 08894435595

Charities and OrganisationsThe Active Nonviolence Education Center (ANEC)ANEC facilitates trainings, workshops and open forum discussions

on nonviolent strategies to help resolve disagreements and differences at all levels of human society. ANEC welcomes volunteers from western countries to participate in informal panel discussions on ideas of regional and global peace and nonviolent strategies. Free lunch and tea for volunteers.LOCATION: No. 262, 1st floor, Khajanchi -Mohalla, Khunyara Rd, Lower Dharamshala PHONE: 98051-47048 / 94180-94476EMAIL: tcsamkhar@gmail.com, Facebook: Anec Peace

National Democratic Party of TibetThe NDPT is currently the only Tibetan political party. With 5000 members in 36 regional chapters throughout the world, the main aim and objectives of the NDPT are to prepare for the establishment of a political party in a future Tibet, to promote democracy, to educate the Tibetan people about the significance of political parties and to create awareness among the people about Tibetan issues. WEB: www.ndp4tibet.orgLOCATION: Dharamshala–176219EMAIL: tibetparty4@gmail.comPHONE: 9882787633 / 9882673330

around town

BUS SCHEDULE* Times and prices may vary.

Please check with the bus stand ahead of departure.

Leaving from the McLeod Ganj bus stand, unless otherwise stated: DELHI: Ordinary Bus: 4:45am, 6pm, 6:45pm, 8:15pm and 8:30pm (Rs524) Semi Deluxe Bus: 6pm (Rs544) , Full Deluxe Bus: (Rs683) AC Volvo Semi-Sleeper: 8pm (Rs1121) AC TATA: 4pm (Rs830)

AMRITSAR: Ordinary Bus: 5am (Rs223) *from Dharamshala

DEHRADUN: Ordinary Bus: 8pm (Rs524); AC Deluxe: 2pm (Rs664) MANALI: Ordinary Bus: 7:10am (Rs676) *from Dharamshala

PATHANKOT: Ordinary Bus: 10am, 11am, 12:10pm, 12:30pm, 2:10pm, 3:50pm, 5pm(Rs150)

SHIMLA: Ordinary Bus: 5am, 5:30am, 6am, 8am, noon and 4:55pm (Rs360) *from Dharamshala, Semi-Deluxe Bus: 8:22am, 7:45pm and 9:30pm (Rs450) *from Dharamshala

FOR BOOKINGS: Location: Ticket stand under McLLo’s, McLeod Ganj Main square Hours: 10am-5pm, daily Phone: 220026 (McLeod bus stand), 224903 (Dharamshala) For deluxe buses, book through any travel agency.

TAXISA private taxi to Lower Dharamshala will cost you Rs 200. Cram into a jeep (from the bus stand), and it’ll

only cost you Rs15.

Ambulance: 01892-102, 222189

Tibetan Delek Hospital Location: Gangchen Kyishong, CTAHours: Outpatient services: 9am-1pm, Mon-Sat; Specialist clinics: 2-4:30pm, Wed only; Emergencies: 24-hrs, daily.Phone: 222 053,223 381

Kangra Airport: 01892-232374

Bhagsu Taxi Union: 01892-221034

Tourism Office: 01892-224430 , 223325

Rail Booking & Enquiry: 01892-265026

Police Superintendent: 01892-222244

Police Contact InformationLocation: Past St.John’s Church on the road to Dharamshala in Cantt. area.Phone: 221 483

McLeod Ganj Post OfficeLocation: Jogiwara Rd, past Peace CafeHours: 9:30am-1pm and 2-5pm, Mon-Fri; 9:30am-noon, Sat. Parcels and money orders can be sent in the mornings only. Phone: 01892-221 924

IMPORTANT CONTACTS

ContaCt 14 JUNE 2014

activities and tourist info

lAnGuAGes

Tibetan Language CoursesWEB: www.thosamling.comLOCATION: Thosamling Institute, Sidhpur (near Norbulingka) HOURS: 4 hours/dayPHONE: 9882455065EMAIL: thosamling@gmail.com

Rita Thakur Hindi ClassesLOCATION: Ketan Lodge, Jogiwara Rd, beside the Korean RestaurantPHONE: 981-649-4732

Hindi Lessons with SunilLOCATION: Kunga Guesthouse, Bhagsu Rd and in DharamkotPHONE: 01892-21942, 941-818-7281EMAIL: sunilsharma81in@yahoo.co.in

Tibetan LanguageLOCATION: The Tibetan LibrarySee Buddhist Philosophy Listing

Hindi Lessons with KailashLOCATION: At Bhimsen’s Indian Cooking Class PHONE: 01892-20063, 941-816-1947HOURS: Daily, 4:00-6:00pm

Tibetan with Pema YoudonLOCATION: Jogiwara Rd, opposite post officeHOURS: 1:00-4:00pm, or leave a message.

Esukhia Online Tibetan Courses and Tibetan Immersion SpokenLOCATION:Tilak Ray Building, Bhagsu RdWEB: www.esukhia.orgPHONE: 8679502538 / 9882004965 EMAIL: contact@esukhia.org

Om Yoga, Meditation & Reiki CentreLOCATION: Ketan Lodge, behind Akash Hotel, on Jogiwara Rd - Map #11HOURS: 8:00am-5:30pmPHONE: 980-569-3514

Sunita Singh Yoga ClassLOCATION: Singh Corner, nr Magic TreeUpper Bhagsu (see ad on pg 19)PHONE: 9805889060WEB: www.maashakktiyoga.com

Lotus Healing TouchLOCATION: Mcleod GanjPHONE: 86791-64778EMAIL: Lotus_healingtouch@hotmail.com

House call treatment offered as well!

Nature Cure Health ClubShiatsu massageLOCATION: Near Tibetan Ashoka, Jogiwara RoadPHONE: 941-813-0119EMAIL: mahinder_m@hotmail.com

Synergy Ayuredic Massage CenterLOCATION: Near Tibetan Ashoka,Jogiwara RoadPHONE: 941 80 8488EMAIL: mcleodganj@gmail.com

Traditional Thai MassageLOCATION: Opposite the Himachal Govt. Tourist Information Centre, Hotel Surya RdPHONE: 981-633-9199EMAIL: jite02@yahoo.com jitthimalaya@gmail.com

MAssAGe

Indian Cooking and Knitting with Ms. Rita KapoorLOCATION: Old German Bakery, 1st Floor, Room No. 2, Opp. Buddha Hall, BhagsunagPHONE: 94592 06586

Lha Tibetan Cooking School LOCATION: Lha Office, Temple RdHOURS: Registration, 9:00-11:00amPHONE: 01892-20992

Indian Cooking ClassesLOCATION:Jogiwara Rd, next to Tibetan Ashoka GuesthouseHOURS: 10:00am-6:00pmPHONE: 941-813-0119EMAIL: mahinder_m@hotmail.com

Lhamo’s Kitchen: Tibetan Cooking ClassesLOCATION: Bhagsu Rd, near the Green ShopHOURS: 8:00am-9:00pmPHONE: 981-646-8719

Nisha’s Indian Cooking ClassLOCATION: Hotel Lotus Leaf, Jogiwara RdHOURS: 4:00-6:00pmEMAIL: nisha@indiancookingcourse.com

Sangye’s Kitchen: Traditional Tibetan Cooking ClassesLOCATION: Lung-ta Restaurant, below the Tashi Choeling Monastery on Jogiwara RoadHOURS:10:00am - 4:00pmPHONE: 981-616-4540EMAIL: sangyla_tashi@yahoo.co.in

cooKinG

yoGA & reiKi

Library of Tibetan Works & ArchivesWEB: www.ltwa.net/libraryLOCATION: Gangchen Kyishong, between McLeod Ganj and Lower DharamshalaHOURS: Mon-Sat: 9-10 am, 11-12noonPHONE: 921-842-2467

Public Audience with HH KarmapaWEB: www.kagyuoffice.orgLOCATION: Sidhpur HOURS: Wed & Sat: 2:30pmPHONE: 01892-235307

BUDDHIST PHILOSOPHY

Jul 3-14: 33rd KalachakraKalachakra initiation by His Holiness the Dalai Lama at Leh, Ladakh. For more information, visit - ladakhkalachakra2014.com

Jul 6: Birthday of the 14th Dalai Lama

Jul 31: Choekhor Duechen Buddha Shakyamuni’s first teaching

Aug 15: Independence Day of India

UPCOMING EVENTS

Tibet MuseumLOCATION:Near the Main Temple and the Namgyal Monastery gate, McLeod GanjHOURS: Tue-Sun: 9:00am-5:00pm

Tibet Photo Exhibit: 50 Years of Struggle and Oppression LOCATION: Gu-Chu-Sum hall on Jogiwara Rd, next to the Lung-ta Japanese RestaurantHOURS: Mon, Wed & Fri: 2:00pm-5:00pm

The Tibetan Institute for the Performing Arts (TIPA)WEB: www.tibetanarts.orgLOCATION: Tipa Road, McLeod GanjPHONE: 1892-221478EMAIL: tibetanarts2012@gmail.com

Kangra Art MuseumLOCATION: Near Bus Stand, Kotwali BazaarPHONE: 01892 224214HOURS: Tue-Sun: 10:00am-1:00pm & 2:00pm-5:00pm

Naam Art GalleryLOCATION: Main Road Sidhbari DharamshalaPHONE: 9816043708

Form Gallery LOCATION: Jogiwara Rd. near Oasis CafePHONE: 8894-060602HOURS: Daily, 12:00pm-6:00pm

ART & MUSEUMS

Om Yoga, Meditation & Reiki CentreWEB: www.omyogaindia.comLOCATION: Ketan Lodge, Jogiwara RoadPHONE: 980-569-3514 EMAIL: om.yoga@ymail.com

Tushita Meditation CenterWEB: www.tushita.infoLOCATION: DharamkotHOURS: Mon-Sat: 9:30-11:30am PHONE: 0898-816-0988EMAIL: spc@tushita.info

Vipassana MeditationWEB: www.sikhara.dhamma.orgLOCATION: DharamkotHOURS: Mon-Sat: 4:00-5:00pmPHONE: 01892-21309EMAIL: info@sikhara.dhamma.org

Rishi Yoga & Meditation CenterWEB: www.rishiyogaindia.comLOCATION: Tokyo House, Mcleod Ganj PHONE: 09816565138EMAIL: yogi_shivam@yahoo.co.in

School of Life and SpiritualityMeditation and teachers’ trainingLOCATION: behind Hotel Akashdeep, Bhagsu, Mcleod Ganj, please call before comingWEB: www.devom.orgPHONE: 09569221047, 09971608310EMAIL: dev@devom.org

MEDITATION

ContaCt 15 JUNE 2014

activities & news

Perfect 32 Dental ClinicDr Natasha MehraLOCATION: Near Hotel Mount View, Jogiwara Road, McLeod Ganj, DharamshalaPHONE: 09218742046EMAIL: perfect32dentalclinic@gmail.com

Dr Sant Marwah Clinic LOCATION: In front of Main Temple, McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala - HOURS: 9:30am-6:30pm, Closed MondayPHONE: 01892-21106, 981-602-1106EMAIL: smarwahin@yahoo.com

Dr Kumar Ayurvedic and PanchkarmaWEB: www.kumarayurveda.comLOCATION: Hotel Surya Rd., opposite thethe Club HouseHOURS: 9:00am-2:00pm & 2:30-7:00pm; Emergencies: 24 hrs dailyPHONE: 8894492837EMAIL: SATINDER3737@gmail.com

Maanav Health ClinicLOCATION: Main SquareHOURS: 10:00am-12:30pm and 2:00-5:00pmPHONE: 941-815-5795EMAIL: maanavcare@yahoo.co.in

Men-Tsee-Khang LOCATION: Between McLeod Ganj and Lower DharamshalaPHONE: 01892-226138 / 223113EMAIL: info@mentsekhang.org

Primary Health CentreLOCATION: Jogiwara Rd, main marketHOURS: 9:30am-4pm, Mon-Sat

Nature Cure Health Club LOCATION: Jogiwara Rd, next to Tibetan Ashoka Guest House-Map #10HOURS: 9:30am-6:30pmPHONE: : 94181-30119 / 97363-33888EMAIL: mahinder_m@hotmail.com

Tibetan Delek Hospital LOCATION: Gangchen Kyishong, between McLeod Ganj and Lower DharamshalaPHONE: 01892-22053 / 223381HOURS: Outpatient services, Mon-Sat: 9:00am-1:00pm; Specialist clinics, Mon-Sat: 2:00-4:30pm; Emergencies: 24 hrs daily

heAlth serVices

THOSAMLING’s Tibetan Language Program 2014

THOSAMLING INSTITUTE For International Buddhist Womenthosamling@gmail.com • www.thosamling.com • Sidhpur • 176057 Dharamsala • mob 9882455065

MODULE 1Beginner Course4 Aug – 24 Oct5 days/week, total 4.5hrs/day.Start with the alphabet and learnto read and write basic Tibetanin two weeks. Audio and videomaterials help students progressas quickly as possible.

MODULE 2Intermediate Course27 Oct – 19 Dec5 days/week, total 4.5hrs/day.Main focus is on colloquial Tibetanand first stages of developingliterary Tibetan skills using simpletexts. Private time with teachersis available.

MODULE 3Dharma Language Course4 Aug – 26 Sept5 days/week, total 2.5hrs/day.Main focus is on literary/colloquialTibetan. We work with audio mater-ials, transcripts and translations oforal teachings and their root textsto deepen understandings.

MODULE 4Introduction to Debate13 Oct – 19 Dec5 days/week, total 2.5hrs/day& afternoon debate sessions.Debate opens many doors to theDharma and sharpensthe mind. Registrationfor all coursesis open !The courses are f ree for Sangha .

For a minimum of five people coming from McLeod Ganj: inexpensive daily transport can be arranged.

Reflections of a Volunteer:Finding it all in McLeod Ganj

Name: Ludovico TallaritaJobs at Lha: English Advanced and Intermediate class teacher

of a handshake at the end of class, sometimes a whispered, heartfelt, “thank you”.

Outside of the classroom, the volunteer suddenly switches from being a teacher to a student – a most humbling experience. This community is a truly vibrant hub of international cultures from which you can learn. It is small enough that you can become familiar with its people but diverse enough that you’ll never be bored. Whether you are interested in learning about Tibet’s socio-political issues, Buddhist principles or Yoga practices, you can find it all in McLeod Ganj.

Over the last months I have found myself in a host of these different situations, from drinking tea with monks to spending sleepless nights watching football with sports fanatics. During the weekends you can hire a taxi - or better still rent a motorbike - and drive to any of the nearby gems hidden throughout the Himalayan ranges. Should you visit a magnificent fort where Alexander the Great spent the night? Paraglide off the top of a mountain? Enjoy the placid Pongdam Lake? The choice is yours.

It would be impossible to do justice to the kaleidoscope of cultures and beliefs that one finds upon arrival in McLeod Ganj. So where to begin?

The cornerstone of my time in Dharamshala has been teaching the English advanced class at Lha. Being stopped in the street by students and addressed as “Sir,” I’ve gradually learned to identify myself with my role as a teacher.

The classroom environment here differs significantly from that of the West (and not just because there are scattered cushions taking the place of desks and chairs). For example, the motivations that bring students to class are radically different: students join Lha classes because they have realised the intrinsic power of education, and know they can use foreign language skills to shape their future for the better.

For that reason, all the students I have encountered - Tibetans, Indians, Nepali, Bhutanese, Japanese, Thai, Mongolians - were not only determined to learn, but also extremely grateful. They took every chance to demonstrate their feelings – sometimes in the form

ContaCt 16 JUNE 2014

news and issues

News:tibet.net - official website of the Central Tibetan Administration in exilerfa.org/english/news/tibet - Radio Free Asia’s mission is to provide accurate and timely news and information to Asian countries whose governments prohibit access to a free pressvoatibetanenglish.com - Voice of America’s Tibet pages - VOA is an international multimedia broadcasting service funded by the US government contactmagazine.net - Contact magazine onlinephayul.com - news on Tibetan issues guardian.co.uk/world/tibet - the UK Guardian newspaper’s Tibet pagesscmp.com/news/china - the South China Morning Post – one of the more independent news sources in China

Campaigning:tchrd.org - Tibetan Centre for Human Rights and Democracy - a non-government organisation and a research centre to protect the human rights of Tibetan people and promote the principles of democracytibetanyouthcongress.org - an international non-government organisation that advocates full independence for Tibet from Chinastudentsforafreetibet.org - a global grass roots group campaigning for full Tibetan independencesavetibet.org - international campaign for Tibet and a good resource for news, campaigns, fundraising and projectstibetnetwork.org/home - a coalition of more than 190 Tibet organisations dedicated to campaigning to end human rights violations in Tibet and restoring rights to the Tibetan people

Writings:highpeakspureearth.com/category/woeser - occasional translations of Woeser’s enormously popular blog – Woeser lives in Beijing and is continually harassed by the Chinese government for her courageous writings.

Tibet-Related Websites

Lha Receives Tulane University Student GroupLha hosted a student exchange group from Tulane University, USA, during the month of June. The group of 18 students, led by Mr Michael and his team of tutors, were here for three weeks to explore and learn about the Tibetan community in exile and the

local Indian community. On arrival, the group was welcomed by Mr

Jigme Thinley from Lha who gave a presentation about our organisation and the projects undertaken by Lha.

The students attended lectures by a variety of speakers and visited the Central Tibetan Administration, Norbulingka, Tibetan library and tourist

venues around Dharamshala. The Tulane students were partnered with Lha students so they could learn from each other. The university students learned from their partners about the local Tibetan culture, while the Lha students benefited

from the chance to improve their English language skills by working

with their American partners.On the final evening on June 26,

Lha hosted a farewell dinner for all the students - both the Tulane students and their Lha learning partners. As a token of gratitude, the staff at Lha offered each of the visitors a white scarf and a small memento. On behalf of Lha, our General Secretary Ms Dukthen Kyi expressed our appreciation to the student group for taking part in our students exchange program and for their enthusiastic support.

The group with their Lha learning parters at the farewell dinnerPhoto: Lha

A presentation at Ahimsa HousePhoto: Lha

ContaCt 17 JUNE 2014

SEVEN HILLS OF DOKEBI

KOREAN RESTAURANT

Pure Korean Food AvailableFor both Veg & Non Veg

We serve special Kimbab (Sushi)For every day veg, tuna, avocado,

And many other naturally Korean foodsKimchi, Bulgogi, Very Clean & Delicious!!!

Also good MusicClassics, Jazz, Pop, Korean &

we have nice fireplace

Open 10:00am ~ Closed 10:00pmLocated on Jogiwara Road-Map #12

Mobile: 98055 83234Near the Japanese Restaurant

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HATHA, ASHTANGA, AND KUNDALINI YOGA

Nature Cure Health Clubwith Mahinder Kapoor

Jogiwara Rd, next to Tibetan Ashoka Guest House - Map # 7, Mobile: 07833047078 or 09882320136 Email: mahinder_m@hotmail.com,

12 years’ experience & recommended by the Lonely Planet Visit us for: Swedish massage courses & treatment, Zen Shiatsu courses, treatment,

reflexology treatment, SPA , Singing Bowl Treatment, steambaths, sauna & mud baths.Our teacher has experience teaching in Israel.

DAILY MEDITATION CLASS 7-8 AM AND 5:30-6:30PM

CERTIFIED BY YOGA ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL AND INDIAN GOVERNMENT

DAILY YOGA CLASS8-9:30 AM AND 4-5:30 PM

REIKI I, II, III WITH TREATMENT

OM YOGA MEDITATION CENTERKETAN LODGE, JOGIWARA ROAD. TEL: 9805693514 - Map #12

EMAIL: OM.YOGA@YMAIL.COM WEBSITE: WWW.OMYOGAINDIA.COM

OM YOGA CENTERTEACHER TRAINING STARTING

28 Jul - 28 Aug - 28 Sep

Learn Hindi...the quick and easy way with an

experienced teacherBeginner, intermediate and advanced

Contact: Om Yoga Meditation CentreKetan Lodge, Jogiwara Road.

Map # 12Tel. 9816494732

www.omyogaindia.com

Norbulingka InstitutePreserving Tibetan Culture

Voted the #1 attraction on Tripadvisor, Norbulingka is a must-see for any visitor to Dharamsala.

Take a tour of our workshops and observe master artists at work using centuries-old techniques.

Transport yourself to old Tibet and its unique architecture while exploring our magnificent temple and beautiful gardens.

Dine at Norling Café and taste authentic Tibetan dishes.

Stay at Norling House and experience the warmth of Tibetan hospitality.

Visit our shop where you will find a wide variety of the highest quality Tibetan arts and crafts, all created in our own

workshops.

Located just 30 minutes by taxi from McLeod Ganj, Norbulingka is an unforgettable experience for the whole family.

For more information go to: www.norbulingka.orgHours: 9:00- 5:30 every day. Workshops closed Sundays.

NK_AD_press_105mm_148.5mm.pdf 1 3/19/14 6:16 PM

Leaving DharamshaLa?

Keep in touch with Tibetan news and issues. Read Contact

online at www.contactmagazine.netEverything that’s in the printed Contact and lots more!

ContaCt 18 JUNE 2014

advertisements

Jimmy’s Italian KitchenMain market, just opposite of prayer wheels on the

second floor. Jogiwara Road, McLeod - Map #6Contact: 9816124833

Come for fine Italian food, amazing views from the roof top terrace garden, live music, stylish decor & yummy desserts!

CARPE DIEMRESTAURANT & PIZZERIA

“Your Health is our Happiness”MEXICAN, ITALIAN, INDIAN, CHINESE,

CONTINENTAL, & THAI FOODHealthy hygiene, No MSG•Everything washed with sterilized water•Homemade muesli & homemade curd•Large variety of fresh juices•Wood-fired pizza oven & clay Tandoori oven•Relaxed atmosphere including roof top tables •& Japanese-style seating areaLive music every Sunday•

Located on Jogiwara Road,across from the Tibetan Reception Center

(down from Post Office) - Map #9

TIBET KITCHENRESTAURANT & BEANS CAFE

BEST AUTHENTIC TIBETAN CUISINE IN TOWNSPECIALIZING IN THAI, BHUTANESE, & CHINESE

WE ALSO SERVE FRESH BEAN COFFEEHealthy Hygienic - Only A.C. Restaurant in town

Homemade Noodles - Internet surfing

Party Bookings AvailableOpen 11:00 am to 9:30 pm. Located at the Main SquareContact: 01892-221980, Mobile: 98058 75626 - Map #5

Are you reading this byChance?

Or was it destined…

Discover the Secrets of Being, Doing and Having everything.Unravel the Mystery of your life, And Find the Purpose & Happiness.

Take a walk to….

KUNDALINIEsoteric Boutique

On hotel Surya Road, Mcleodganj - Map # 21

Result guaranteed life-style ideas & discussions at 6:00PM every eveningTuesday through Friday.

Reiki Meditation Healing, Crystals, Pashmina CarpetsEvery product a labor of love

HOTEL LADIES’ VENTURE“The most suitable place for foreigners, holidaymakers, honeymooners,

trekkers, and those who wish to commune with nature!”

We offer: Affordable dormitories, well-appointed rooms, boarding, and McLeod Ganj’s FINEST hospitality!

Jogiwara Road - Map #11Mobile - 981 623 5648 Hotel - 01892 22 1559

Our specialty: Chocolate Vegan cake, Gluten free cake, Fresh Coffe Beans, cappaccino, Chocolate chilli lollipop

9am to 7pm - Closed on MondayBelow “Black Magic Hotel” on Jogiwara Rd - Map # 8

Dream HolidaysSince 1998

Ground Floor of Asian Plaza Hotel, Main Square, McLeod Ganj (3rd office inside Mall) - Map #18

“let us be your dream holiday”+Worldwide Air Travel Arrangements - Lowest Fares

+Discounted domestic air tickets+AC/Non-AC cars/jeeps for tours, airport/train station transfers

+Rail tickets, hotel reservations + Trekking tours

phone: 01892-221469 / 220790, mobile: 98160-87878 / 94180-97149email: vineet_dream@yahoo.com

wesite: www.dreamholidayindia.com

The Vagabond Cafe

So come discover the Vagabond in you!

Drop in and soothe your senses with our delectable menu. Try the best of Indian food.

Dig into mouth melting pancakes, waffles, burgers and noodles. Try our ALL DAY BREAKFAST and listen to the best of

lounge music. Enjoy breathtaking views while sipping your tea/coffe or take it away with you.

Mount View complex, Temple Rd, Main MarketMcLeod Ganj - Map # 26

Contact#(0) 9501328866 / 9805224923

Enjoy traditional Taiwanese and Chinese cuisines in a Peaceful environment

Comfortable floor setting at Common GroundJust one minute from the Bus Stand,

behind Asian Plaza! McLeod Main Square, Map #3

Phone no. - 9418834896

ContaCt 19 JUNE 2014

advertisements

McLEOD GANJ

DHARAMKOT

Vipassana Centre

Tushita CentreTibetanChildren’sVillage (TCV)

Naddi Village

CanttPolicePost

Road to Dharamshala

Main Bazaar

TIPA

BHAGSU NAG

LhaMAIN

SQUARE

For Details See Advertisement Pages

14. Namgyal Cafe15. Hotel Nataraj16. Pema Thang Guest House17. Chonor House18. Dream Holidays Travel19. Crepe Pancake Hut20. Ahimsa House & Lha Soup Kitchen21. Kundalini22. Shivani Clinic23. Rishi Yoga24. Perfect 32 Dental Clinic25. Black Tent Cafe26. The Vagabond Cafe

23

Map not to scale

4

5 6 8

10

11

14

1312

1516

17

97

1819

Thank you for patronising our advertisers!

20

Road to Dharamshala

8 AUSPICIOUSHIM VIEW HOTEL

Located below Ghu Chu Sum Movement at Jogiwara Road. We have 8 beautiful, well-decorated rooms with good-luck symbols in each.

All rooms have a balcony facing the Himalayan Range. Enjoy the sunrise from your bed!

Our restaurant serves Vegetarian Tibetan and Continental dishes. We also have a coffee and juice bar featuring homemade cakes.

Phone: 01892 220567 Cell: 9418236603 (Map #13)Email: tseringd@aushimview.com

1

21

1. Lha Headquarters 2. Garuda Sonam Yeshi Astrologer3. Common Ground Cafe4. Kunga Guest House & Nick’s Italian Kitchen5. Tibetan Kitchen6. Jimmy’s Italian Kitchen 7. Nature Cure Health Club8. Dr Mobile; Woeser Bakery9. Carpe Diem Restaurant10. Himalaya Restaurant11. Hotel Ladies’ Venture12. Seven Hills of Dokibe, Om Yoga Centre13. 8 Auspicious Him View Hotel

22

23

Dr Mobile ShopYour Communication Partner

Mobile Sales, Mobile Repair, Sim Cards, Purchase and Recharge Phone Service

Black Magic Building (underground), Jogiwara Road, Map # 8 McLeod Ganj Phone: 9857011101

24

No Protective Area Permit Required for foreignersSTUPA GUEST HOUSE

Enjoy comfortable stay with beautiful viewLocation: Near Sherabling Monastery

Phone: +91-9805833362 / 9857354043 www.stupaguesthouse.com

Email: tselhamo30@yahoo.com

25

Sonam Massage Therapy Specializing in pain and Stress Relief

House N0 1080 Jogiwara Road Mcloed GanjOpposite 8 Auspicious Him View Hotel

Timing 9:00am to 6:00pm Call for an appointment Contact 9882845580

26

YOGA CLASSKUNDALINI YOGA - 9AM

HATHA YOGA - 11AMEVENING YOGA - 4PM

Chakra BalancingTeacher Sunita SinghContact: 9805889060

Location: Singh Corner, Upper Bhagsu Near Magic TreeSaturday Closed

No evening classes on Sundaywww.maashakktiyoga.com

Map # 2

ContaCt 20 JUNE 2014

advertisements

Chonor HouseChonor House (map #17) is centrally located overlooking His Holiness the

Dalai Lama’s temple. We have eleven uniquely decorated and well-appointed rooms with room service and housekeeping.

Internet is available in our Cyber Yak.Our chefs create a wide range of Tibetan and International specialties which can

be enjoyed in our beautiful restaurant, our peaceful gardens, or on your own private balcony. Visit our bakery for freshly-made cakes and cookies to enjoy

here or to take away.For that special gift to take home, visit our shops,

Chonor Designs and Norling Designs (on Temple Road)and choose from our exclusive range of jewellery, clothing, and handicraft items.

Phone: 221815Talented artisans from Norbulingka Institute create all of our designs.

Phone: +91(0)1 892 221 006/221 468 Fax: +91 (0) 1892 220815Email: chonorhs@norbulingka.org

Website: www.norbulingkahotels.com

and RestaurantPema Thang Guest House

Charming, comfortable, and scrupulously clean;minutes from the Main Temple and McLeod Ganj Market; tucked away in a quiet street with a magnificent view of

the Kangra ValleyTibetan Musical Evenings

with Buffet Dinner on requestThe Yoga Hall is available on hire for yoga sessions,

small teachings, and meetings

Hotel Bhagsu Road, McLeod Ganj: Map #16Phone: 221871/221001 www.pemathang.net

Crepe Pancake Hut

KUNGAGUEST HOUSE

Spacious rooms with views over the valley, and...

NICK’S ITALIANRESTAURANT

Home baked cakes, quiches, pies, pastas, cheese, & Italian favourites served on our mas-

sive terrace.We also have on sale theRigpa Tibetan CalendarBhagsu Road - Map #4

Phone: 221 180

Namgyal Cafe

The famous and popular Namgyal Cafe has merged with Om Hotel right off the main square - Map #14

Extensive vegetarian menu• Terrace dining with beautiful view• Best pizza in McLeod Ganj• Good music and friendly staff•

Open every day from 7:30 am to 9:30 pmMobile: 9857993308, 9816150562

Come to enjoy our carefully prepared vegetarian,deliciousvegan food

Veg burritoAvocado salsa

Homemade kumbucha

Wonderful cakes and much more! Relaxing reading room, Wifi,

fantastic view and facilities

Jogiwara Road, Opp. Mount-View Guesthouse, Map #19

Mobile: 8628813700

Black Tent Café

Tibetan Decoration comfortable floor seating

Homemade FoodBest breakfast & delicious coffee

Books exchange, fast internet service

Live Show - Tibetan songs every Wednesday

Contact: 8679856917Jogiwara Road, Mcleod – Map # 9Find Black Tent Cafe on facebook!

NEED A DENTIST?

For all your dental requirements under one roof... In a sterile and

state of the art clinic

CONTACT

Near Hotel Mount View Jogiwara Rd, McLeod Map# 24

Call: 09218742046Email:perfect32dentalclinic@

gmail.com

contact newsletter

འབྲེལ་གཏུགས་གསར་འཕྲིན།

Managing DirectorNgawang Rabgyal

Editor-in-ChiefJenny James

EditorDukthen Kyi

Assistant EditorPeter Newman

Layout DesignTamdin Yangzom

Circulation ManagerLobsang Rabsel

Published byLha Charitable Trust

Web: www.lhasocialwork.orgwww.contactmagazine.net

Phone: 91(0)1892-220992Email:editor@contactmagazine.netFacebook: ContactNewsTwitter: @ContactTibet

Printed at Imperial Printing, Dharamshala Phone: 222390

Dr Natasha Mehta@

Perfect 32 Dental Clinic

Rishi Yoga Centre

Yoga Meditation

ADDRESS: Tokyo House, Jogiwara RoadNear Yongling School, McLeod Ganj – Map # 23

Contact: 09816565138www.rishiyogaindia.com Yogi_shivam@yahoomail.co.in